Growing up as an elite student athlete Nicky has been in the spotlight as a top of the line entertainer at a very young age. After being abducted at the age of 17, he almost lost his life in a 3rd world prison cell; along with his dreams of making it to the NBA stage. Blessed with another shot at life, Nicky continued to pursue knowledge and wisdom and graduated from a prestige College ranking in the top 8% in the country, in 2012.
Learning the In’s and Out’s of global communication, cinematic production , and music production he is now helping other artists build their foundations to make personal dreams reality.
Taking this knowledge to the streets and venues Nicky has performed with names such as Gorilla Zoe in WI, as well as Enutta Butta at the world famous Viper Room in Los Angeles California. Going by the stage name of “The Anonymous” for performing, His music ranges from hip hop to dub step referencing the struggles of life and a positive uplifting message different from those of your mainstream artists.
The Surfaholics formed in 2005 by Brad Yates (The Wanderers, Lights Over Bridgeport), Paul Cullen (The Odyssey, The Shatners, Josh McCormack Band) and John Prestipino (Quarter Turn, The Shatners, Lynxwail) who were all employees of HGS Music (formerly the Highland Guitar Studio). The group was an homage to Paul and Brad’s fascination and love of the sounds of vintage surf recordings. The original
intention was to have a band that was different than most region groups and would be suitable for house parties and sock hops. The original lineup had writing credits by all parties with Brad and John on Guitar and Paul playing drums and composed the first Surfaholics’ original “Gazoo.” John moved on to other projects and Paul and Brad recorded an EP of Christmas songs titled “Happy Birthday to the Big Kahuna” by overdubbing all parts between the two members.
With the desire to play live shows Brad Yates had recruited former Wanderers bassist Aaron Kreke and Corey Lake (The Drubins, Hoosier Daggers) to play drums. The crew started playing surf standards from The Ventures, Dick Dale and Los Straitjackets plus a handful of originals, one of which was a recreation of the Drubin’s song “Don’t Surf on My Turf.” Through the next year the group played various shows opening for local rock, punk, country and psychobilly acts. These shows are often referred to internally as the “party” shows since the crowds were extremely rowdy, caused high amounts of alcohol consumption and usually led to the destruction of personal items. The Halloween of 2007 showed true artist roots when the band took on the name Spookaholics dressed in Misfits attire and covered surf versions of early Misfits songs with guest singer Brad Vanderzee. Shortly after the new year of 2008, the band went on a hiatus due to schedule conflicts.
In 2010 the band regrouped to play a special Christmas holiday beer exchange with revitalized enthusiasm. From this performance the group started working hard on new songs. After a steady year and a half of shows featuring numerous originals, The Surfaholics decided it was time to memorialize their written material and went into the studio Spring of 2012 to record their full length album “Hang Eleven.” The Surfaholics plan release of their album the fall of 2012.
Brian and Duncan first started writing music together in early 1976 with Brian on cheap fuzz guitar and Duncan on Biscuit tins. Brian had a poster of an album by Phil Manzanera called Diamond Head that was released in 1975 and he thought “that would be a good name for the band”, but they needed a singer and auditioned several school chums until someone mentioned they had heard Sean Harris singing Be Bop a Lu La on a coach and so Brian asked Sean to try out and after one song he was asked to join. Colin Kimberley, an friend of Brian’s from junior school completed the line up.
The first demo tape was cut in 1978 in a studio in Kidderminster. This was used to get gigs, and a copy was sent to Geoff Barton at Sounds, who was suitably impressed and put them on his play list, and arranged an interview. Continual gigging set them in good stead. This saw them opening for the likes of ACDC and Iron Maiden.
At the beginning of 1980, the band formed ‘Diamond Head Music’ as a means to putting out their own self financed material. Their first single was ‘Shoot Out The Lights’ backed with ‘Helpless’ on Happy Face Music.
They then recorded what was to become their first album release. Like Led Zeppelin’s fourth album it had no official title and has been referred to as the ‘White Album’, or ‘Lightning To The Nations’. There were initially copies 1000 pressed, which were in a plain white cover. Every copy was signed by one member of the band. This was available only at gigs or by mail order for £3.50 A further pressing of 1000 were done, which had the track listing on it. This contained 7 classic tracks including ‘Am I Evil?’, ‘The Prince’ and ‘Sucking My Love’.
The next single was ‘Sweet and Innocent’ from the White Album, backed with a new track, ‘Streets of Gold’. Two new tracks arrived in 1981 on DHM Records – the double A-side of ‘Waited Too Long’ and ‘Plat It Loud’. The Diamond Lights 12″ EP followed soon after giving us ‘It’s Electric’ and three new tracks, ‘We Won’t Be Back’, ‘Diamond Lights’ and ‘I Don’t Got’.
Later in 1981, the band signed to MCA Records, their first release being the ‘Four Cuts’ EP containing ‘Call Me’, ‘Trick or Treat’, ‘Dead Reckoning’ and a new version of ‘Shoot Out The Lights’. A second single; ‘In The Heat Of The Night’ was released prior to the ‘Borrowed Time’ album.
A double single of this contained live versions of ‘Play It Loud’ and ‘Sweet and Innocent’ recorded at the Zig-Zag Club, together with a 14 minute interview with Tommy Vance recorded in June ’82.
Diamond Head played a magnificent set at the Reading Festival playing new tracks and old. The live version of ‘Sucking My Love’ would later be released as a 12″ with ‘Out Of Phase’, and the whole set 10 years later as part of the BBC sessions series.
Living On….Borrowed Time’ was released in late September 1982, in a lavish gatefold sleeve with stunning artwork courtesy of Rodney Matthews and entered the UK charts at number 24. A 12 date UK tour followed in October and November to promote their new album taking in Birmingham Odeon, Mancheter Apollo and London’s Hammersmith Odeon.
1983 saw the release of the ‘Makin’ Music’ single as a precursor to the album that was also intended to be called ‘Makin’ Music’ but was changed to ‘Canterbury’. During the recording both Dunc and Colin left the band. Colin still plays on some tracks on Canterbury, but was replaced by Merv Goldsworthy, who would later to go on to form FM. Robbie France took up the drum stool. 20,000 copies of the album had pressing faults causing the first track to jump. This consequently affected sales, with it eventually charting at number 32.
‘Out Of Phase’, a second single was released backed with the album track ‘The Kingmaker’. The band played the Donnington Rock Festival in the summer of 1983 and shortly afterwards, keyboard player Josh Phillips-Gorse was added. The band completed a European tour with Black Sabbath in September. Another tour of Odeon sized halls took place in October of that year to promote ‘Canterbury’.
The band were preparing for a fourth LP, ‘Flight East’ in 1984 but were dropped by MCA. When their manager failed to get them a deal at the MIDEM music business convention, the band split.
The original line up got back together to jam through ‘Helpless’ and ‘Am I Evil?’ with Metallica at one of their shows at Birmingham’s NEC.
The following year saw Brian and Sean team up once again as a band with Karl Wilcox and drums and Eddie Chaos on Bass. Playing only new material, the band completed a small tour of UK clubs under the pseudonym ‘Dead Reckoning’.
It was obvious that Diamond Head were now back in business. The band entered the studio to record tracks for an EP entitled ‘Rising Up’. Instead just a 2 track 12″ was released available only at gigs and specialist record shops. ‘Wild On The Streets’ had its origins back in 1978, but had never been completed or recorded. ‘Can’t Help Myself’ completed the single.
Following two further club tours, Chaos was replaced by Pete Vukovic to record the ‘Death and Progress’ album. The album features celebrity guests in the guise of Megadeth’s Dave Mustaine who played on, and mixed the track ”Truckin’. Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi also guests on ‘Starcrossed’, adding a very distinctive solo.
Prior to its release, the band opened a show at Milton Keynes Bowl featuring Megadeth and Metallica on 5th June 1993. The album sold more than 50,000 copies to their ever loyal fan base.
This show was later released as ‘Evil Live’ in 1994 along with extra tracks from the ‘Death and Progress’ sessions. This was to be Diamond Head’s last show for 7 years.
In late 2000, Brian and Sean started working on an acoustic project, reworking some of their back catalogue in an acoustic style with new recruit Floyd Brennan. The trio performed some low key gigs before recording a four track EP and perfoming at the Rock Shield Festival in Burton On Trent.
The acoustic shows had revitalised interest in Diamond Head, and new songs had already started to be written. Early in 2002, an offer to headline the New Jersey Metal Meltdown IV Festival as an electric band was too good a chance to miss. This signified the return of Eddie Moohan and Karl Wilcox. A couple of weeks rehearsal and a short 4 date UK tour warmed the band up for their first trip to American soil. Their headline performance proved a massive success with many US fans getting their first chance to see the band live.
More new material was written and fans got to hear new tracks such as ‘Shine On; and ‘Forever 16’ on another UK club tour in September 2002, and a notable slot at the Derby Bloodstock Festival. At the end of 2002 and the early part of 2003, Diamond Head ventured into the studio to record a new album with Andrew Scarth. Although this album had been completed, Sean’s reluctance to release it as Diamond Head or desire to play live, meant that it never saw the light of day. Determined to continue, the band played a short set at the Wacken festival in 2003 with ex- Tygers of Pan Tang’s Jess Cox on vocals.
2004 heralded a landmark in Diamond Head history as they embarked on a new phase with new singer Nick Tart. The year saw them rehearse and write new material as a revitalised band, and record a new album with Nick, ‘All Will Be Revealed’. The end of the year saw them perform their first gig infront of an invitation only crowd at JBs in Dudley. Harking back to the early days and the ‘do it yourself’ attitude, 1000 self financed copies of their new album were pressed. These quickly sold out at gigs and via their website.
In February 2005, Diamond Head embarked on a massive European tour supporting Megadeth which turned out to be a massive success for the band, impressing long standing fans and picking up younger ones along the way.
2005 proved to be a succesful year for the band. Cargo Records picked up All Will Be Revealed and gave the album a full commercial release allowing a much greater audience than the lucky few who had managed to get a hold of the pre release copies. The year culminated with another short tour and Diamond Head headlining a 25th Anniversary of the NWOBHM at London Astoria in November. The Astoria show was professionally recorded which resulted in a live album, ‘It’s Electric’ and Diamond Head’s first ever official DVD. The DVD was released in August 2006 and features bonus material of interviews and in the studio recording All Will Be Revealed.
Diamond Head released their new album ‘What’s In Your Head?’ on Livewire/Cargo on 30th July 2007 and the band toured the UK and Europe including KIT Festival, Germany, Diamond Head’s first headlining tour of Ireland and Hard Rock Hell.
In December 2007, Diamond Head toured the UK as special guests to Thin Lizzy on their 30th anniversary tour of Live & Dangerous.
In August 2009, Universal records released a triple Diamond Head CD. Titled ‘The MCA years’, it contains re-mastered versions of Borrowed Time, Canterbury and Live at the Reading Festival. The release also includes some bonus material and demos, some of which have previously been unavailable.
This is the first release of Borrowed Time and Canterbury on CD in the UK. The Reading set was previously released on Raw Fruit in 1992, but has long since been deleted and is a much sought after item by Diamond Head fans.
Powerful lead vocals by the very entertaining Laura Braun, a Janis Joplin/Grace Slick/ Adele/Duffy kind of singer accompanied by a band that lays down a heavy groove. The Pheromoans are the groove masters.
The Vidiots are an all original ,exciting ,eclectic ,electric,good time band from Chicago. Hue and Rich played in the band,” Phil n the Blanks”. Lee played in “Bohemia” and Blue Watusis”. The fourth member is the hot singer songwriter, rhythm guitarist Chava Lona bringing with her great talent and beginner’s luck.
BreakEven is an acoustic pop rock band with a touch of country based out of the south suburbs of Chicago. Angelo Manzoeillo, lead singer and guitarist of BreakEven, established the band, BreakEven, in 2011. BreakEven’s music is grounded by harshly honest and entrancingly placed lyrics that carve a perfect bed for the unyielding male and female vocals. BreakEven is made up of Angelo Manzoeillo on guitar and lead male vocals, Juliana Kluever on female vocals, Mike Licari on drums, and Dan Patt on bass.
A Chicago based reggae band, Milytant and The Hazetones are making waves even as they prepare to release their first set of recordings. Come see what folks are calling “the most energetic performance of the evening!”
BURKINA FASO WorldArtist (Fada Dougou)The Man of Many Styles.Fada Tours The Us, Canada, Asia and Europe For Years Doing 12 Styles of Music in Four Languages
WARRIOR KING
Like a bolt of lightning from the sky, Rasta messenger Warrior King has burst upon the scene, utilizing his gift of song to spread Jah truth throughout the land.Warrior King was born on the 27th of July, 1979, in Kingston’s Jubilee Hospital, soon moving to Clarendon, then settling in the growing city of Portmore at age eleven. “From birth I’ve always loved music, but it was not until I attended high school at the age of thirteen that I thought about it as something I could do myself,” Warrior King explains. “At that time I followed Bounty Killer’s style, but then my friend Warrior Mark, him said, ‘You have the potential. You have the talent.’ From there I started increasing my own thing, and with encouragement from my peers and inspiration and t’ing, the music started to flow.”
Like many successful Jamaican entertainers, Warrior King gained his earliest stage experience in talent shows. “I started out with school concerts at first,” he says. “At the time when I just came inna music, I used to do some combinations with a yout’ named Likkle Blacks, Marlon Stewart. We used to do Tastee’s Talent Show together, so we could really start getting exposed and gain experience.” When he first started out Warrior King chatted in a hardcore deejay style, like his original hero, Bounty. A switch to the more holistic “singjay” sound came gradually. “It’s a natural thing what just grow inside of me, even without me realizing,” the singer reasons. “People started telling me they hear I can sing now. So, really and truly it’s just a natural change.” Even his name is an extension of this evolution. “I changed my name from ‘Junior King’ to ‘Warrior King’ because it have a more spiritual feel to it. Fighting against oppression, fighting against wrong. I’m Jah warrior, yuh know, fighting a war of rootical love.
Warrior King’s 2001 debut single, “Virtuous Woman,” was an international smash, its righteous lyrics prompting the Jamaica Observer to declare the singer “one of the artistes who made a difference in 2001.” Since that auspicious beginning, Warrior King’s compositions have consistently charted not only in his native Jamaica, but throughout the entire Caribbean, as well as New York, London, Tokyo and beyond. “A Friend Indeed” is currently getting heavy rotation in Jamaica, while “Jah Is Always There” was a recent summer smash on Atlanta’s More Fire chart. The inclusion of “Never Go Where Pagans Go” on VP Records’ compilation set “Reggae Gold 2002” further raised the artist’s profile. Also included are “Virtuous Woman,” “Never Go Where the Pagans Go” and other compositions that have built Warrior King’s reputation.
Now the conscious singer has released his first full-length album. His VP Records debut, Virtuous Woman, features production by such heavy hitters as Sheldon ‘Calibud’ Stewart, Richard “Chabano” Brown, Lion Paw and Penthouse as well as guest appearances by Jahmali and dub poet, DYCR. With titles like “Love Jah and Live” and “Boast Not Myself,” the CD’s seventeen tracks are designed, says Warrior King, to “uplift people’s heart, mind and soul in a positive way. All of the songs are written by me, through inspiration of the Father. Everybody can relate to a song on the album, I’m sure of that.” The album opens up with “Power To Chant,” a spiritual invocation of Jah that neatly sets the tone for what’s to follow. Each song featured on the cd has a different style, but the message emphasizes purity and truth.
Warrior King believes that education is the key to betterment and hopes that his music will serve to convey the teachings of His Imperial Majesty, Hailie Selassie I. “As a Rastafarian you just don’t sing music, you sing music with a purpose and a mission. To the four corners of the Earth,” says Warrior King, “I carry my music, and the message of the King. And the message of love, to all people of all races.”
Photo & text courtesy of VP Records-Walboomers Music.
YABBA GRIFFITHS
A multi-talented musician whose repertoire includes vocalist, song writer, performer, arranger, band leader, guitarist and producer, Marcus Yabba Griffiths was born in Manchester Parish, Jamaica, and from age 11 he lived in Kingston. A member of the vocal group, Gold Tones, Griffiths recorded a single entitled “Girl Exposer” for Duke Reid’s Treasure Isle Label, and caught the attention of Rendford Cogle (songwriter for the Melodians). Cogle wrote “Lock Love Away” for Griffiths to sing on Sonia Pottinger’s Hi-Note label and, in 1969, the song went to #8 on the Top Ten charts in Jamaica. This same year he recorded a song for Clancy Eccles, “Don’t Break The Heart That Love You,” and later re-recorded the song – and another which was never released – for Clement “Coxsone” Dodd of Studio One.
Moving from singing to playing quitar as a studio musician, Griffiths worked with the great musicians and singers of Jamaica – Bunny Wailer, Soul Syndicate, Gregory Isaacs, Roots Radics, Carlton and Family Man Barrett, Winston Wright, Lynn Taitt, Jackie Mittoo, Robbie Shakespeare, Sly Dunbar, The Tamlins, Bobby Colphat, and many others.
Griffiths joines Charles Hannah and The Graduates in 1972, and 1974 found him touring Jamaica with Solid Foundation. During this time, he recorded the first version of his big hit, “Devil Woman,” featuring the Tamlins; Devil Woman was released as a single in the U.S. and U.K. in 1976 and captured “hit song” status in metropolitan New York and Chicago.
In 1976, he toured the U.S. with Big Youth and the band Creation. After the tour ended he joined the Black Eagles (now known as Morgan Heritage), then moved to New York City in 1977 to form Yahtova (God Love). Still based in New York, Griffiths, with Patrick “Shaka” Hochen, founded Traxx in 1979; Griffiths and Traxx relocated to Chicago, IL., in 1980, briefly joining forces with Aligator Records.
Hailing from the beautiful Caribbean island of Dominica, the Ancient and Holy Lands of Ethiopia, and the South Side of Chicago, comes the award winning reggae music of Gizzae.
Led by 2011 NIU jazz studies graduate Chris Goranson (guitar/vocals) and David Click (guitar/vocals), a self-proclaimed DeKalb townie and founder of local music festival, Stompkee, Ourglass is complete with Matthew Judson (drums/vocals), junior NIU jazz percussion major, Mark Walters (bass), and Danielle Guilini (violin), 2011 NIU classical violin performance graduate.
Sharing influences from the vast ‘90s alternative rock scene (from Nirvana to Radiohead), Goranson and Click branch out from there. The former brings to Ourglass his love for the modern blues of My Morning Jacket and the Black Keys, the latter, his nostalgia for the psychedelics of Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin. As if this juxtaposition wasn’t intense enough, vocal melodies are complimented by Guilini, German classical violin scholar, and the beat is kept by Judson, aka Mot Juste, world music avant-garde.
Semi-hollow Epiphone guitars, Big Muff bass pedals, drum machines, reverb, Vox AC30, space, reverb, Echo, Sitar, Brian Jonestown Massacre, 70’s AM radio, road trips, the desert, reverb, analog tape, digital binary, the future of the past
From behind the boards to the stage, there’s not a spot of ground Fresh Kils’ prolific career hasn’t touched. And not just hip hop. It’s true, you’ll see Saigon and Ali Shaheed (ATCQ) grace his resume, but you’ll also find the likes of Ron Sexsmith & The Buena Vista Social Club. His prowess on the MPC has seen him share the stage with many of hip hop’s legends (Nas, De La Soul) as well as the best of the underground. With momentum & accolades growing each year, Fresh Kils’ is poised for a sound system takeover unlike any we’ve seen in a long time. You’ve been warned… Price is Right Routine: Fresh Kils – Price Is Right Routine
Mad Dukez has been steadily building buzz in the Upstate New York indie scene for quite some time now. A versatile artist’s artist, Dukez has a broad belt of skills: from the stamina to freestyle for hours without end, to painting vivid pictures with precise, articulate lyrics and uncanny inflections, to vocally harmonizing across octaves with the soul of a classic Motown record. Additionally, Mad Dukez has opened up for a wide range of headliners — from Aloe Blacc to Sadat X to Blueprint– just more proof that this newcomer is truly a renaissance hip hop emcee. Mad Dukez is currently promoting his upcoming debut, GETTIN’ GATSBY’D, a conceptual album paying homage to the roaring twenties and the short-lived decadence of that decade. Entirely produced by Toronto producer champion Fresh Kils, the unique pairing has resulted in smooth, energetic flows floating over original sample-free hip-hop compositions, with a hell of a live show attached, as you can see: Mad Dukez and Fresh Kils – Enter The Dragon …as well as here: Mad Dukez – Monsters (Official Video)
Mr. F is a Ska/Reggae/Jazz Fusion group that was formed by members from the Macomb based band AF7 along with some of their friends from other groups. Using their various backgrounds in musical studies and experiences the main goal is to get you dancing. The influences from many genres help separate Mr.F from what you hear everyday through your headphones.
For nine years their sound has evolved. Following an exchange of musicians and a wave of new musical influences, The Diggity now highlights the talent of eight individuals from Northwest Indiana that work to create an original sound built on the foundation of diverse musical interests. The group has achieved a new sound over the past two years with additional keyboards, backing vocals, drum samples, and songwriting styles. Funky electronic rock music would sum up the sound of The Diggity in the fewest of words. Many genres, including hip hop, blues, and electronica have influenced the music that is not only performed live by the group but recorded locally in northwest Indiana. Following the June 2010 release of “Another Wondrous Conversation,” the band released their third, self produced album titled “Human Skills” in February of 2012. A powerful live performance and unique on-stage antics with crowd participation has found The Diggity touring around the Midwest, playing frequently at music festivals, clubs, and bars in both Indiana and neighboring states. Check ’em out.
Take One Car is a group of good friends and family, from Upstate, NY, brought together by some collective desire to make music. We’ve spent the last 4 years performing, traveling, writing & recording in some form or another. In February, we plan to release our second full-length album, It’s Going To Be A Nice Day. We have spent the last year working, pretty much non stop, on making it an album that “WE” love…an album we would listen to. It was one of the hardest and most rewarding periods this band has been through. We hope you enjoy it!
INGLISH, LOUISE & MCKINLEY is a vivacious female folk act comprised of three songwriters, all of whom are consummate musicians and powerful singers.
Over the years, these women have nurtured independent careers as touring songwriters and performers and are now coming together to present a cutting edge progressive folk act informed by the 1970s spirit of Crosby, Stills & Nash. The show is built on excellent original songwriting, packed tight with harmonies, and steeped with musical collaboration. The project began as a duo of Inglish & Louise, but has recently been fleshed out to the full trio sound with the addition of Santa Cruz songwriter Kendra McKinley.
GABRIELLE LOUISE, hailing from Boulder, Colorado, is a nationally touring troubadour noted for her poignant lyrics and lush voice. One moment folkie and ethereal, the next a smoky jazz chanteuse, Gabrielle follows her creativity through many sonic landscapes and topical themes. The through line? A gentle invitation for her listener to release their grip on the status quo. (More information at www.gabriellelouise.com.)
ERIN INGLISH, a native of the California Central Coast, plays solid Scruggs-style banjo, and her unique presentation of voice and banjo is reminiscent of the sounds of John Hartford. Erin has lived in India, Madagascar, Bulgaria and Serbia, and her songwriting reflects her worldly travels and grounding passion for sustainability and social justice (www.erininglish.com.)
KENDRA MCKINLEY – Santa Cruz, Calif. singer/songwriter Kendra McKinley combines captivating vocal melodies with intricate guitar-picking and piano accompaniment, luring in a wide range of listeners. Kendra also specializes in creating refreshingly complex harmonies on a loop pedal, layering her extensive vocal range and bringing the rowdiest crowd to a total standstill. (www.kendramckinley.com)
Gritty, soulful and honest. Alex Hoffer is a Joliet based Singer/Songwriter that has been playing all over the Chicagoland area for the past five years. With recent shows at Milwaukee’s, Turner Hall Ballroom and an appearance on Chicago’s, Windy City Live (ABC), Alex has been getting some major attention. Soul/Blues/Folk. Come out, and “Move Your Soul”. You’ll be happy you did.
Exterminate All Rational Thought is an instrumental progressive rock quartet based in Fort Wayne, IN. All of the members have attended various music schools and workshops, thus extending their appreciation of all styles and genres within and outside of the music industry. Their music aspires to be a perfect blend of rhythmic motifs and polyphony that is intellectually stimulating, yet not so complicated as to be inaccessible. Featuring unorthodox chord progressions, strange but beautiful harmonic structures, and an impressive dynamic range all joined together into one cohesive unit, E.A.R.Thought is unlike any other ensemble in their area. They welcome and encourage you to listen and devise your own mental images as to what each individual song is speaking to you. – S.R.
Ryan has been involved in the Chicago independent music scene for 10 years now. He currently fronts local underground mysterious legends, The Limbos. He also has a no-fi solo project under the name Yellow Candy. He’s the head music director at ComedySportz in Chicago’s lakeview neighborhood. He’s played piano aboard Norwegian Cruise Lines and recorded with local audio master, Steve Albini.
”Brandy Row has been at the forefront of London’s underground rock n roll scene for the last eight years. Never fitting into the mold of posh kid gone bad or mid European desperately trying to emulate a form of British culture that never was, Brandy Row is the real thing. He has come from a broken background in a deadend town outside London and has spent most of his life challenging the identikit mold that has been cast for all around him.
Playing in numerous bands in the last decade his current incarnation is that of acoustic folk chanteuse taking centre stage alone in every dirty bar, street, club venue that England, Europe and America has to offer, earning him the title of the hardest working young man in underground rock n roll today. He also fronts a nine piece band, bringing you high energy rock n roll that clashes from all different genres, and plays lead guitar in 1977 style punk band
Brandy is a creative tour de force that has come equipped with the weapons to cut himself a path from the mediocrity. a one man army. that shows no sign of surrender! get ready”
Black Tie Elephant is a midwest post-rock outfit formed in 2006 that combines lush string arrangements and scattered beats, creating massive post-classical inspired soundscapes. Band member Farsheed Hamidi-Toosi (drums) has a long history playing with electronic/hip-hop groups (Animate Objects, Arthur Hamidi, Agent Mos, Zirafa) and Brendan Finucane (cello) has been playing experimental cello for most of his life and currently also plays with Chicago based baroque-core heavy hitters The Paver. Together they combine their knowledge of soul, post-rock and chamber music to create a uniquely lush combination that is informed and inspired by bands such as Godspeed! You Black Emperor, Slint, Medeski Martin & Wood, and Tortoise. They currently have a newly anticipated EP that will be released in early February 2013, recorded at their cooperative recording studio, Soapbox Music Recording Studios that they share with such bands as Bike Cops, Rabble Rabble, and Orange Drink.
Formed in June 2009, The Precious Moments deliver a high wire circus act of great pop hooks complete with smart ass lyrics and frenetic show that is certain to delight.
The Precious Moments is fronted by uber-charismatic front man Adam Voss, ex-leader of California’s Adam Has Crabs and Chicago’s own The Sissy Drinkers. Inured in the Chicago Music scene, Lead Guitarist Chris Brandt hollows out the core with his refreshingly musical sensibility, while established tug-boat Dan DeMichele delivers incongruously propulsive bass lines to the hard-to-describe mix and former swimsuit model Pete Nocito pounds home the rhythms on drums.
The band’s love of British pop, rock n’ roll and new wave is clearly evident in their own original material, however it’s hard to put a finger on the Precious Moments experience.
23 year old up and coming rapper from Chicago, IL using his talents to be able to openly express himself and engage with anyone who has a love for solid, real music.
Daniel is a band that was formed by accident on a drizzly October day in Kalamazoo, MI. Since then, the band has lived here and there and has never had an official line-up until October of 2012, two years after its founding. After these two years of set-backs, serendipity, irony, circumstance, drama, and confusion, the band finally has both feet on the ground and is ready to proudly wear a sticker nametag that reads “Hello, my name is Daniel.”
Wood Groove is comprised of musicians with years of experience and have worked together in preview bands who are ready to bring you some of the finest from acoustic instruments!
William comes from a long lineage of musicians and has himself been performing professionally since the age of 16 beginning with the legendary late Ken Chaney’s big band. He soon began touring with the Dells, Marvelettes, and others while finishing a degree in composition at Columbia. Kurk has since continued to work as a musical director for several local theatre companies as well as accompany names like Paulina Rubio, Dionne Warwick, Martha Reeves, Koko Taylor, Stanley Jordan, and many others. The Enterprise is made up of talented roster of musicians and dancers that explores the outer regions of Kurk’s music.
We’ve all been kicking around town in bands for years – some more popular than others. As mentioned, we like rock, beer and volume. Order optional. We just finished our second record, “Won’t Risk An Explosion.” We’re happy with it. You can listen to it here:
Since his first release in 1999, Chris McFarland has been a constant force in the acoustic indie/DIY scene. Whether solo, or with backing musicians, McFarland posses an intimate quality that grabs the listener and pulls them into the story of the song.
Chris has shared stages with national acts such as: Neko Case, Bright Eyes, Granddaddy, Rainer Maria, Mates of State, Britt Daniel (of Spoon), The Dirty Three, & Denali just to name a few.
A true road warrior, his tour schedule shows a dedication to his craft, and he can be found crossing the United States several months of the year.
With music being classified as everything from angry folk/singer-songwriter to percussive rock, McFarland’s diverse influences have combined for a truly unique and personal sound.
After a successful Group career with Phresh Muney “CHOO JACKSON” makes his solo career a reality and ventures out with the blessing from Phresh money! With the strong backing and support from (Mac Miller) MOST DOPE theres endless possibilities for chop jackson! Check out his first video and song as a solo artist and make sure to keep up with his career as it evolves
Cisco Adler is a Singer/Songwriter/Producer from Malibu, California known for bringing back the “California Sound.”. He is one half of the alternative hip hop group Shwayze. The duo have released two records that have reached Number #1 on the US Itunes charts and their self-titled first album debuted at #10 on the US Billboard Charts and gave us the hit singles Buzzin’ and Corona and Lime. Their most recent album LET IT BEAT is in stores now and has spawned the ubiquitous club hit GET U HOME.
Cisco has also co-written and produced songs for Mickey Avalon , Dirt Nasty, Andre Legacy, Cold Flamez, Tabi bonney, The Knux, Lil Jon, G. Love, Roxy Cottontail, Unwritten Law, Big B, and more. He has had songs in The Hangover, Tropic Thunder, Sorority Row, Final Destination, Gossip Girl, The Hills, and is currently music supervising and composing the entire score and soundtrack for a new film called Mothers Little Helper starring James Belushi. He is managed by industry veteran Jordan Schur and Suretone Management whos only other acts are Limp Bizkit and The Cure. He is also an avid cartoonist and painter and overall Bon Vivant. Cisco recently started Bananabeat Records and signed his first artitst Chris Young the Rapper. Chris has release two critically acclaimed mixtapes The Moodswing EP and 619
The Gold Web is Chicago’s art-glam monstrosity. Known for their highly theatrical stage shows, the group doses audiences with blissful grooves, dramatic songwriting, and an outrageous visual performance.
Brandishing 6-foot wings, glitter, feathers, and face paint, The Gold Web look like they flew out of David Lynch’s dream, or Lady Gaga’s nightmare. Musically things are a little clearer– and even more irresistible; the group’s self-titled debut album traffics a charismatic brand of forward thinking indie-pop marked by surreal synths, rump shaking beats, and futuristic guitar wizardry.
Assembled out of a lineage of Chicago bands and visual artists, members of The Gold Web cut their teeth touring with acts like KISS and Smashing Pumpkins, while other members curated notable galleries and pushed the boundaries of performance art communities. The result is a dreamy freak world which raises more questions than it answers. Where are we going? Will we be safe once we get there? Will we ever want to leave?
Imagine a sequestered town at the southern brink of the Lone Star State whose townsfolk claim as much cultural heritage from the bordering country as they do from their own. A place that seems contradictory being such a small town in the largest of U.S. states. It is in this setting that the emerging band, Sick/Sea finds its roots. While their hometown might be small, the music from the Magic Valley is anything but little. The tight-knit music community found there is making waves that are flowing out past the edges of Texas, spilling into the south at large. Several critically acclaimed groups hail from the area and Sick/Sea is a part of the growing current.
The sibling-members Audrey and Cameron Scott joined together to create what might be called a ‘trend-breaking’ type of music, having fused the multi-genre sounds of their childhood into one splendid style featuring elements of Indie, Jazz, Rock and even a breath of Hardcore. Their unique songs are strung together by mellifluous, reverb-laden guitars whose dream-like tones could have easily been recorded in an echoing cave on a deserted island in that longed-for ocean from which the band’s name is derived. Cameron’s dynamically energetic drumming, combined with the succinct and jazz-like bass riffs, create a diverse and mature sound. Perhaps it is the vocals that give Sick/Sea that finishing touch which sets them apart from the rest. The lyrics are honest — every word intentional. The warm, articulate performance of Audrey Scott is easy to sing along with — a rarity when coupled with the caliber of wit present in each and every song this southern Texas band crafts together. Theirs are songs of life and love and the discernment gained through human relationship.
It is child-like adventure that brought Sick/Sea together, cherishing such works of literary fiction as Robert Louis Stevenson’s ‘Treasure Island.’ It is this same adventurous spirit that propels them forward as musicians, having completed successful tours, and plans in motion to move to the Texas music capital of Austin. Their course is set and the horizon towards which they sail looks ever brighter.
Families consists of three folk story tellers, with souls of grass and minds made out of the mountains, weaving personal tales from the Bible. Families is about community, folklore, and the Kingdom.
They love to play music with friends, inviting them to pick up instruments and play along, and are used to playing in living rooms, basements, coffee shops, and parks.
Named “Artist To Watch 2011” by Beatportal, Deathface (AKA Johnny Love and vocalist Effy) comes at you hard with a sound inspired by Midwest hardcore of the 90’s, Magic the Gathering, woodland bonfire parties, white trash drug debauchery, Atari Teenage Riot, and Aleister Crowley. It’s the soundtrack to The Omen’s Damien Thorn and The Exorcist’s Regan MacNeil dropping 2C-B at Anton LaVey’s first rave.
Scary, right? Now for some history…
Johnny Love is one of the most provocative figures in dance music. A native of Southside Chicago, Johnny rose to infamy in his hometown in the early 2000’s via a series of events he threw at The Jerkstore which shunned predictable-dance-rock for eclectic and loose cuts from minimal techno and French touch house. The parties got so wild that Love was imprisoned by the Chicago police on more than one occasion and was constantly featured in both local and national magazines like Timeout Chicago, URB, and XLR8R.
With things too hot in Chicago, Johnny moved to Los Angeles and formed Guns N’ Bombs. The hard-hitting electro-house duo were quickly offered a contract by Kitsuné founder Gildas Loaec in 2006, making Love the first American to be recognized by the French Electro elite. He soon became a seminal player in the formation of the current American EDM scene, remixing acts like Chromeo, The KLaxons, The Gossip, Junior Senior, The Cult, The Teenagers, and Ghostface Killa.
After a vast amount of critical acclaim and the making of many friends, enemies and frenemies, Guns N’ Bombs disbanded in 2009 and Johnny decamped to a hideaway in Brooklyn to craft Deathface’s swift and deadly takeover.
Recent collaborations include an amazing t-shirt through Mishka (designed by Seattle’s death-rock-obsessed streetwear giants Actual Pain), three releases on taste making label Trouble & Bass, remixes for Marilyn Manson, Creep, Buraka Som Sistema, Huoratron, Blessure Grave, Drop the Lime, Mexican Institute of Sound, autoKratz, Kid606, and tracks featured on the new Max Payne 3 game.
“Put this kid on before The Prodigy and they’ll find any excuse not to go on…Deathface transports hardcore rave into the next decade. Adrenaline driven….and trust me when I say this , it’s not some paid-for opinion which is included in some marketing budget. Awesome & dangerous.”
Bill Thomas Trio is the embodiment of real Chicago blues. Born & bred from the traditional “West Side Chicago” sound, BT3 puts on a dynamic roots driven stage show that will keep all lovers of all styles of blues coming back for more.
Bill Thomas started playing guitar at the age of 12 and came to the blues at the age of 14 upon discovering Stevie Ray Vaughan. He has been living and playing the blues since that day.
The drummer is always the core that drives any great band, blues or otherwise, and John Martellotta is no exception. As a relative newcomer to playing blues, John brings his New Orleans tinged jazz and rock background to the mix, creating a heavy, poly-rhythmic groove that goes anywhere from delicate and subtle to full bombast. His ability to to take traditionally simple blues tunes and apply deep, moving rhythms that propel the songs forward in unique ways are his specialty. Playing drums since the early age of 7, John cites his major influences as Stanton Moore, Keith Carlock, Jojo Mayers and “Zigaboo” Modeliste.
Ray Somera is one of those musicians that drive other musicians crazy. While most of us strive to play one instrument well, Ray can play the hell out of anything with strings. As the bass player in the BT3, he keeps things anchored and heavy, anticipating Bill’s every musical move and adjusting accordingly. Bill considers Ray his musical mentor and his brother from another mother. Ray is also a virtuosic guitar player and is a master jazz musician.
Crash County was formed during the summer of 2009 with singer Scott Dangerfield, drummer Patrick Gonyo, guitarist Jacob Brenwall, and bassist Chris Bartel. After a year hiatus from their previous band, the members picked up their instruments once again and began to write new music. It began with weekend jam sessions in the basement of Scott and Jake’s house in Milwaukee’s Riverwest neighborhood. After a few sessions it became clear that their musical chemistry did not depart during their time away from music. Work on their first album began in earnest.
In early 2011, Crash County received an unexpected boost when singer Scott Dangerfield appeared on the Milwaukee audition episode of Fox’s hit TV show American Idol. Following his soulful rendition of Amos Lee’s “Dreamin’,” judge Jennifer Lopez exclaimed “You might be my favorite so far!” Similar praise was heaped on by Randy Jackson and Steven Tyler, and the internet was soon buzzing with Dangerfield’s name. Unfortunately, due to a prior commitment to the UW Milwaukee School of Education, Scott decided to forgo Hollywood week and remain in Wisconsin to finish his college education. However, his brief appearance on Idol gained Crash County numerous followers around the globe who tuned in to their YouTube page every week to watch videos of Scott and the band performing original music and cover songs. Scott again auditioned for Idol’s eleventh season and once more received a golden ticket. This time around, he was able to follow through and made it to the Top 42 round before being eliminated.
Crash County released their self-produced and self-recorded album “Home” in June 2012. Heavily influenced by artists old and new, Crash County’s signature style blends heavy blues riffs with catchy melodies and blazing guitar solos into an album that is all their own. It is available through their online STORE (link), or digitally through ITUNES (link) and CD BABY (link). Crash County has played dozens of shows throughout Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan, and is most frequently booked in the Milwaukee area. They are currently hard at work on their second full-length record, which will be released sometime late in 2013.
When Anneke van Giersbergen started her solo career back in 2007, she had already been the frontwoman of Dutch metal pioneers The Gathering for 13 years. Together with her band Agua de Annique she released several outstanding albums to both critical and popular acclaim in a short period of time which immediately put her in the picture as a solo artist.
She was also involved in several interesting co-operations with the likes of Within Temptation (“Black Symphony” 2008), eccentric multi-talent Devin Townsend (“Addicted” 2009) and long-time friends Anathema (“Falling Deeper” 2011).Over the last few years, Anneke van Giersbergen has been exploring her musical boundaries to the fullest. In 2008, together with Dutch A-list bands Racoon and Bløf, she recorded a song in her native language: “Als je ooit nog eens terug kan”, which shot straight to #1 on the Dutch charts.
In 1985, Ron Daniel had become tired of playing in the southern California punk scene. He’d joined the band The Hags when their lead guitarist went to jail, and had enjoyed the notoriety that came with being in one of Orange County’s most controversial stage acts. Billed as “Rock and Roll’s abortion,” the group was like a punk Black Sabbath with a genius sociopath at the mic. (Mark Dead regularly using surgically precise insults to provoke audiences towards violence against himself and the band.)
One night, when headlining a 12-band bill celebrating the grand reopening of a famous punk club, Ron was grousing to high school pals Matt Jordan and James Lareau about the scene, about having no creative control, and about the fact that this music was just too damn SLOW. He said he was ready to quit.
Matt was playing drums in Iron Maiden tribute band Barrier at the time. With no permanent singer or bass player, the future wasn’t looking promising. Bassist James was playing with the Schuerman brothers in punk band Lethal Gene, but the band wasn’t gigging enough.
Together, the three of them decided to dump their bands and form a new unit: Tracer (named after the visual effects LSD has on its user). They began writing tunes immediately. But even after auditioning half a dozen singers, the right vocalist couldn’t be found. They temporarily borrowed Tony Vargas (L.S.N./Vermin) to produce a three-song demo entitled “Sudden Death,” but the band was destined to dissolve.
Matt wanted to keep playing, and put an ad in the Recycler asking for musicians that were “into Slayer and old KISS.” A guitarist named Brett answered the ad. Brett Sarachek had come to L.A. from Kansas, and played in several metal groups with names that would later be recognizable: Blind Decree featured guitarist Glenn Rogers (Deliverance/Vengeance Rising/Hirax) and Mike Gonzales (Dark Angel), and The Hierophant had vocalist Julian Mendez (Heretic).Matt and Brett decided to jam, and invited Ron to sit in. Starting with Slayer’s “Black Magic,” they played a few tunes that sounded tight. As a joke, Ron picked up the mic and belted out another Slayer tune. Matt and Brett were floored. They emphatically told Ron that they didn’t need to find a vocalist. HE was the guy. Hesitant, Ron finally acquiesced. If they could find a bass player, they’d be up and running immediately. James was called, and in 1986, VIKING was born.They started furiously writing new tunes and reworking some of the Tracer and Hierophant material. In a very short time, they had a setlist and started booking shows.
VIKING managed to land a recording contract upon the completion of their second live concert, a feat practically unheard of in the clubs of Hollywood.VIKING went on to open for such acts as MEGADETH, FORBIDDEN, and SACRED REICH, as well as headlining many of their own shows.
Although VIKING had a six-album contract with Metal Blade Records and an upcoming U.S. tour with Helstar, Ron knew that his new-found Christian faith would not withstand the temptations of the road. He quit the band in 1990 along with Matt Jordan, who had also recently become a Christian. With only two members remaining, VIKING immediately disbanded. Brett, having replaced DARK ANGEL’s Jim Durkin on a world tour, joined the band full time, and released “Time Does Not Heal” before exiting the band himself. In the meantime, Ron and Matt had moved to Oregon, and James pursued a career in sculpture.
Fast-forward 22 years. A new generation of thrash fans revere the music of the “old guard”: that first wave of bands from ’85, ’86, and ’87 who followed Slayer and Metallica into the pit. Bootleggers are producing VIKING records and merchandise. Relentless requests from both long-time followers and new thrash fans demand the return of VIKING.
In 2011, Ron Daniel Eriksen and Matt Jordan reunited for the purpose of creating new tunes. The new VIKING page on Facebook gained over a thousand fans the first week — and continues to grow towards 20,000. A new, full-length studio album of original tunes has been written and recorded, soon to be released as “No Child Left Behind.” Original members Ron and Matt have teamed up with former Dark Angel bassist Michael Gonzalez, and Justin Zych of VadimVon, with live shows being booked for 2013.
Since brothers Jack and Michael Daly formed Stellar Road they have gone through much evolution. They’ve developed a love affair with songwriting and performing live in front of crowds, small and large, all across the U.S. They create a raw, eye opening, musically romantic and true experience for their listeners, with lyric and song at the forefront of their being. Their stories are those of love, life and loss woven into an unpredictable but meaningful canvas of music which is appreciated by all ages.
As their home Chicago and it’s neighbored cities caught on to their crafty pop-rock style and high energy live performances, Stellar Road started selling out local rooms and branching out to Midwestern college towns. As they turned the local page and started touring with additional musicians, local and national media started taking notice. Showcasing for Epic Records in L.A., opening slots for Bon Jovi, Nickelback & The Goo Goo Dolls, two successful independent releases, many battle of the bands competition crowns, and several national tours. Stellar Road’s enthusiasm and work ethic has never wavered.
After road-testing all of their initial material, in 2004 they released their debut album “Better Than Yesterday”. “B.T.Y.” was ranked in the top 5 albums of the year by Midwest Beat Magazine and has sold over 10,000 copies all over the globe. After a few months of touring for the album release, Stellar Road took a hiatus to write new music and find a collective group of more permanent band members to tour with. During their search for new musicians brothers Jack and Mike went back to their roots and started touring acoustically again.
In late 2006, Adrian Pacheco (bassist) was added to the SR Lineup. A short time later Maurice Jones (drums) was also acquired. They immediately gelled into what is now the newest edition of Stellar Road. The band started playing locally again to test and tweak new music that would end up on their 2009 self-titled release “stellar ROAD”. They celebrated their new independent album with a show at Chicago’s legendary Park West Theatre. Since then the band has toured relentlessly throughout the Midwest and East Coast. After spending the winter in Chicago and traveling for regional shows, they are eager to get back on the road to blanket the entire U.S. with their unique talents by the end of 2011.
DogHouse Swine was formed in mid 2009 by Ian, lead guitarist and vocalist, CEO, and self-proclaimed unstoppable force of nature. B.T., former guitar player and co-founder for the Legendary punk band The Wretched Ones, and Chris DeBellis on drums. After playing various club shows in the NJ/NY area, in 2010 they recorded their debut album ‘Faster Side Of Normal’, and released it under their own label Banned Records. Their first single “Bitch” also featured a video, directed by Dave Neabore of Dog Eat Dog fame. They have continued to play shows opening for noteable international bands such as Electric Frankenstein, and Mucky Pup. In 2012 the band expanded to include another member Iron Rich on bass, who was the former bassist for the The Wretched Ones, thus moving B.T. back to his natural state on rhythm guitar. By doing that the band’s sound has become beefier and more sonic, witch is evient on their new album, titled ‘Dogs Of War’, just realeased in Aug 2012. Another video will also be produced as well for the Album, by Dave Neabore once again. Uncharted Radio .com writes, “If you like your punk rock as authentic as it can get, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with these guys. This is punk rock to the core.” Rock N’ Roll Army ezine from Germany writes “Honest and pure old school punk rock with no frills.” The band’s goal is to continue building an international fan base, and for more extensive touring, on an international level, as well as domestically.
2011 is the year of resistance and rebellion. Based out of Crete, Illinois Expired Empire has set out a goal to start a revolution among the music scene. The importance to instill a sense of innovation and bash ignorance within musical culture is the essence of Expired Empire. Being brought up in cultural variations and musical differences, each member of Expired Empire brings pristineness and individuality to form sounds of psychedelic proportions. Growing up together and understanding the importance of individual expression has made this five some, a power house of musical ingenuity. To fully understand and comprehend the magnitude of this new musical endeavor, come see them live and be prepared to undergo a revolution of your own.
Oceano’s ability to encode such transmission within the framework of tight, taught, and technical heavy music remains a key to their success since 2006. Over the years, the group has ignited a diehard fan base. Picking up where critically acclaimed 2015’s ‘Ascendants’ and 2017’s ‘Revelation’ left off, the band expands their patented deathcore punch with brutal heaviness and moments of unrelenting technicality and precision in their newest single, “Mass Produced”. Oceano utilizes thought-provoking lyricism that continues to elevate them within the landscape of heavy music, a key to their success over the past decade.
Hailing from the Dirty 130’s on the south side of Chicago, we introduce to you one of Chicago’s up and coming entertainers, Solo Xquzit.
Solo Xquzit was born and raised up on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. While growing up, he enjoyed playing baseball and basketball, but at the tender age of 10, he found his passion for entertainment.
He was influenced by some of raps biggest and brightest such as 2Pac, Biggie, Nelly, and Jay Z. Solo’s style and writing brings music and experiences that everyday people can relate to. As a youth and a teenager, he has won many talent competitions, he won first place in the Austin Town Hall Showcase. Undeterred by the competition, Solo’s performances on one of Chicago’s number one talent promotion show, The Royce Glamour Show, was by far a performance that lite up the place.
Honing his craft at various open mics and talent shows around the city, he has gained a huge fanbase. He has performed at The Regal Theater, Redemption Theater; at the ATL. vs. CHI-TOWN battle competition, Blue Star Lounge and etc., promoting his hit single,” DJ BRING IT BACK,” Solo attack’s the track with a way that has never been tried and done, so he knows what paying his dues is all about. Solo was once asked,” How do he see his self in the music industry?” Solo answered, “I’m not trying to be a follower or change the game. I’m trying to overcome the impossible when people told me it was a waste of time, and at the same time I’m trying to start trends.” He is ready to show the entire world what he has to offer to the world of music. I must say Solo Xquzit is one of Chicago’s rising stars.
Copasetic Music Group, also known as CMG the ‘Coolest Group Ever’ is a collective of artistic super heroes that hail from Chicago. CMG consists of P.Davis, Omega the Jack, Skillvorkian, Write Jus 1, Leadbelly, Spit Specialist, Furious Intellect, and DeCisive. The force is strong with this group of working class producers, emcees, and deejays. Each member has had past experiences pursuing a career in music that has shaped the desire to be an even stronger force in the independent market.
CMG crafts a unique sound that is as trial blazing as it is entertaining. Hip Hop music true to the essence of the golden era, with a modern day voice that crosses all walks of life. As gritty and competitive as the Wu Tang Clan with the soul and social commentary of the Stylistics… CMG is a refreshing glass of water for the thirsty music lover. Revitalizing the spirit with dope beats, dopes rhymes, great production, and energetic live performances.
CMG aims to bridge generational gaps thus giving a voice to those without one and who are misunderstood. Unity is the key to break down the barriers that currently hinders the progression of the Hip Hop culture, and more importantly the people in it. CMG works to achieve such unity with their mantra of ‘Camaraderie and Honesty’. Hoping to build a fellowship with not only artists in the Chicago music scene, but with artist everywhere. CMG shares their goals and music with the world, and hopes both will last for years to come.
Kenn Retro is an emerging underground MC from Chicago. Kenn was born and raised on the West Side city streets that has birth such artists as Common, Kanye West, The Cool Kids & Twista. Growing up in Oak Park, a diverse atmosphere, gave him much to talk about, allowing him to express his self freely, developing his talent, his gift that he would soon love and become one with. His Grandparents, already owning businesses, (Henderson Studio & Out of the Past Record’s) providing him with a diverse taste of music to marinate on, not only edged his style, but molded his personality. Growing up he performed cover songs with his cousins around the community, which gave him his first taste at stage presence. Perfecting his craft as an MC and lyricists, combining his words with the best flow possible, Kenn Retro has embarked on a journey to share his unique music with the world.
